Vandeleur Walled Gardens
Why it matchesExplore the historic walled gardens, find your way through a maze, play giant chess, and see the Victorian glasshouse. There is also an audio-visual display about the area's history.
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All ages · up to 60 min · any budget
Why it matchesExplore the historic walled gardens, find your way through a maze, play giant chess, and see the Victorian glasshouse. There is also an audio-visual display about the area's history.
Why it matchesVisit the Shannon Dolphin Centre to learn about the bottlenose dolphins in the Shannon Estuary. See real skeletons, hear dolphin sounds, watch a film, and explore marine specimens. Children can enjoy goggle boxes, colouring, and a giant jig
Why it matchesExplore Scattery Island with OPW guides who will tell you about its history, from monks to Vikings. Look out for wildlife and enjoy the fresh air. Kids get activity sheets for the ferry trip.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the museum, see World War II exhibits, and board a replica flying boat. There is a 3D show about Irish coffee, and a chance to taste it. You can also see maritime exhibits and river views.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk an alpaca or learn about them and their wool. You can see how products are made from their fleece and yarns.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the Aviation Museum, take a Family Aviation Discovery Tour, or try a flight simulator. There are also birthday parties and camps for teenagers.
Why it matchesThis is a traditional farm where you can see free-range cattle, rare breed pigs, hens, ducks, donkeys, dogs, and a cat. You can visit the farm shop or arrange a meal.
Why it matchesTake a short trip on a diesel replica of the original Lartigue Monorail. See how the unique switching system works. Visit the museum to watch films and see models and displays about the railway.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a festival of stories, music, and songs inspired by the Irish Rambling House tradition. There are performances, workshops, and events for children.
Why it matchesFamilies can see a variety of animals from around the world, walk a nature trail, and play indoors with tractors and a bouncing castle. There are picnic spots and a tea room.
Why it matchesHire bikes, including electric bikes, kids' bikes, tag-alongs, trailers and child seats, to cycle the Limerick and Kerry Greenways. Pick up from depots in Rathkeale, Listowel, Tralee, and Abbeyfeale.
Why it matchesVisit the heritage centre to learn about Lisdoonvarna's history as a Victorian spa town and sample the sulphur waters. There is a play area for children and a tea room for refreshments.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore Bunratty Castle and wander through the Folk Park to see what life was like in an Irish village in the early 1900s, complete with characters and animals.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a water park with inflatable challenges, a Kiddy Splash Park for smaller children, and Swan Pedalos at Kilrush Marina. Wetsuits and buoyancy aids are included.
Why it matchesFamilies can meet farm animals and exotic creatures, play on go-karts, mini golf, a bouncing castle, and indoor and outdoor play areas. There is also a fairy trail and a farm museum.
Why it matchesExplore the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark. You can go hiking, biking, surfing, kayaking, walking, or foraging. There are caves and nature reserves to see, and a food trail for local produce.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore woodland trails, cycle, and look for birds around the lakes and the old house at Curragh Chase Forest Park.
Why it matchesFamilies can take a ferry across the Shannon Estuary from Tarbert to Killimer, County Clare. You can also walk along the coast and see the Tarbert Lighthouse.
Why it matchesTake a boat trip to Scattery Island and explore its monastic ruins, round tower, and lighthouse. There is a shorter walk and a colouring map for children, and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching.
Why it matchesFamilies can see a life-size bronze statue of the famous uilleann piper Willie Clancy. In July, the area hosts a summer school with music and dance.
Why it matchesTake a ferry to Scattery Island and explore a monastic site with a round tower, churches, and a lighthouse. OPW guides lead a walking tour, and you can spot wildlife.
Why it matchesFamilies can stay in a bell tent or wooden cabin at this glamping site. There are yoga and meditation classes, a labyrinth, and woodland to explore. Nearby are beaches, coves, walking and cycling routes, horse riding, and dolphin watching.
Why it matchesThe Pollock Holes are natural swimming pools in the sea at Kilkee. At low tide, you can walk across the flagstones and swim or snorkel in the clear Atlantic water. Watch out for small pollock.
Why it matchesRent a campervan, motorhome or RV to explore Ireland at your own pace. You can pick up your vehicle at any Irish airport and use it for touring, sports or music events.
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